Kinesiology- Exercise Physiology (MS)

Curriculum

Near the completion of the program of study, each student is required to select either a non-thesis option or research thesis option. Students pursuing the non-thesis option must choose an internship for three credit hours. Students choosing to complete the thesis will work with their advisor to organize a committee of three faculty members to supervise, monitor and evaluate the thesis for three to six credit hours. All courses in the exercise physiology program are offered in an evening format.

Capstone Experience
Students Must Complete One of Two Options (3 hours)

Course Sequence

Students in the non-thesis option are able to begin in the fall, spring or summer and can complete all degree requirements in 12, 18 or 24 months. Students in the thesis option typically require two academic years to complete course curriculum.

Non-Thesis Option

The non-thesis option for the Master of Science in kinesiology with a specialization in exercise physiology is for students who are not interested in pursuing a doctorate. Through classroom learning, laboratory experience and true hands-on experience, the non-thesis exercise physiology program produces exceptional graduates who are well prepared for the professional work environment. The option provides course work and laboratory experience that prepares students for careers in adult fitness, hospital or corporate-based wellness programs, cardiac rehabilitation, strength and conditioning specialists, or professional careers (e.g., physical therapy, occupation therapy, dentistry, pharmacy, etc.)

Thesis Option

The thesis option for the Master of Science in kinesiology with a specialization in exercise physiology is intended to give exceptional students knowledge in basic medical and scientific areas to prepare them to pursue a doctoral degree in exercise physiology. It should be pursued only by students who have a serious commitment to the science of exercise physiology. Students focus on the study of the human body's responses and adaptations to physical activity. Students in the thesis option will typically take two academic years to complete the course work and research thesis. The student and faculty advisor will match thesis and coursework with the goals of the students to provide an exceptional learning experience.

Admission to a graduate program in kinesiology does not guarantee the opportunity to complete a thesis. In order to complete a thesis, students must do the following:

Meet with the professor(s) with whom you would like to work to discuss your research interests.

Submit a letter of interest to the professor(s) with whom you would like to work. Include the following items in your letter of interest for consideration to the thesis program.

Explain your research interests and goals and how they match with the faculty member whom you plan to work with on your thesis project. Include your breadth and depth of research experience (we understand that it may be limited), your potential fit with the specified faculty’s research agenda, and what potential benefits you plan to gain.

Provide examples of leadership potential and your ability to work with a diverse research team. Leadership and teamwork examples can be from academic, professional or community activities or employment.

What are your career or academic ambitions following the completion of your graduate degree? Include short- (two to three years) and long-term goals (five to six years).

As a student or faculty member, science and research will involve several moments of trial and error before achieving success. Provide an example of when you failed at something you were heavily invested in and how you dealt with and learned from your failure.

Submit an example of your writing to the professor(s) with whom you would like to work.

Faculty will choose thesis students based on a combination of potential for success, a match in research interests between the faculty member and the student and availability of the faculty member.